Complete text of Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales' remarks
Issue date: 2/22/08 Section: News
Below is the text of Alberto Gonzales' remarks, as prepared for delivery and provided to Student Life. Mr. Gonzales' speech was delivered on Tuesday night, February 19 at the 560 Building.
Good Evening,
Last Tuesday, I voted in the Virginia primary. During this presidential campaign, we have heard a lot about the desire for change. In truth, every election represents an opportunity for change, a new beginning, the next chapter in the American story. One of the local newspapers in D.C. rightly acknowledged yesterday that talking about change is not new, people talked about change even before there was an America. The paper also correctly recognized that there are limits on the ability of any President to cause change. And yet, we continue to want it. Why? Because it is our nature as Americans to want better. Every time I cast a vote, it is a reflection of hope; a tangible act towards making my dreams come true.
A poor single mom votes to take her sick child to the hospital. An unemployed father votes to get his job back at the factory. A veteran votes to protect his buddies fighting overseas. A college student votes for her future.
Life is about such choices.
Some of the students have chosen to protest. They are saying, I think, that they disagree with something and they want a change. But it is not enough to protest. Many people who complain the loudest do not even vote. What choices are you prepared to make to bring about change?
The vast majority of Americans did not choose to be American citizens. We are American by birth. Perhaps this is why too many of us seem to forget or take for granted from time to time how privileged we are just to be citizens of the United States.
As Attorney General I had the opportunity to visit almost 30 countries . . . observe different cultures, understand different systems of governance. There are many wonders beyond our shores, but if I had to choose one country to claim as my home, I would choose a country that provides all of its people with opportunity; I would choose a country whose people are generous and strong, willing to sacrifice to preserve freedom at home and to defend it abroad. I would choose the United States.
Good Evening,
Last Tuesday, I voted in the Virginia primary. During this presidential campaign, we have heard a lot about the desire for change. In truth, every election represents an opportunity for change, a new beginning, the next chapter in the American story. One of the local newspapers in D.C. rightly acknowledged yesterday that talking about change is not new, people talked about change even before there was an America. The paper also correctly recognized that there are limits on the ability of any President to cause change. And yet, we continue to want it. Why? Because it is our nature as Americans to want better. Every time I cast a vote, it is a reflection of hope; a tangible act towards making my dreams come true.
A poor single mom votes to take her sick child to the hospital. An unemployed father votes to get his job back at the factory. A veteran votes to protect his buddies fighting overseas. A college student votes for her future.
Life is about such choices.
Some of the students have chosen to protest. They are saying, I think, that they disagree with something and they want a change. But it is not enough to protest. Many people who complain the loudest do not even vote. What choices are you prepared to make to bring about change?
The vast majority of Americans did not choose to be American citizens. We are American by birth. Perhaps this is why too many of us seem to forget or take for granted from time to time how privileged we are just to be citizens of the United States.
As Attorney General I had the opportunity to visit almost 30 countries . . . observe different cultures, understand different systems of governance. There are many wonders beyond our shores, but if I had to choose one country to claim as my home, I would choose a country that provides all of its people with opportunity; I would choose a country whose people are generous and strong, willing to sacrifice to preserve freedom at home and to defend it abroad. I would choose the United States.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 2
Stuart Stainman
posted 2/22/08 @ 2:19 PM CST
As a parent of a Junior at Wash U. I remember Chancellor Wrighton saying that the university is proud of its civility and diversity. I am glad that remains true. (Continued…)
Post a Comment